City of Darien City Council met June 15.
Here is the minutes provided by the council:
1. CALL TO ORDER
The regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Darien was called to order at 7:30 P.M. by Mayor Marchese.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Marchese led the Council and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
3. ROLL CALL — The Roll Call of Aldermen by Clerk Ragona was as follows:
Present: Thomas J. Belczak Ted V. Schauer
Thomas M. Chlystek Mary Coyle Sullivan
Eric K. Gustafson Lester Vaughan
Joseph A. Kenny
Absent: None
Also in Attendance: Joseph Marchese, Mayor
JoAnne E. Ragona, City Clerk
Michael J. Coren, City Treasurer
Bryon D. Vana, City Administrator
Gregory Thomas, Police Chief
Daniel Gombac, Director of Municipal Services
4. DECLARATION OF A QUORUM — There being seven aldermen present, Mayor Marchese declared a quorum.
5. QUESTIONS, COMMENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS – GENERAL
There were none.
6. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – June 1, 2020
It was moved by Alderman Kenny and seconded by Alderman Schauer to approve the minutes of the City Council Meeting of June 1, 2020.
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Chlystek, Gustafson, Kenny, Schauer
Abstain: Sullivan, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: None
Results: Ayes 7, Nays 0, Absent 0
MOTION DULY CARRIED
7. RECEIVING OF COMMUNICATIONS
Alderman Schauer received communication in opposition of proposed sign at the northwest corner of Plainfield Road & Cass Avenue from Joan & Jack Graham, Michelle Houska, Joan & Rich Brandeis and Bryan Gay.
Alderwoman Sullivan.
.received communication from Larry Smith, Gleneyre Road, regarding utility easement in need of repair on Carriage Green Drive; Director Gombac addressed the issue..apprised resident of sewer project after notification from Director Gombac.
.noted Anna & Richard Garro, Gleneagles Lane, were in attendance regarding their pool.
.received communication from Brookeridge Creek residents regarding Honey Bee Farm located on Kearney Road in unincorporated Downers Grove.
.received communication from Bryan Gay, Joan & Rich Brandeis, the Krupickas and the Johnsons in opposition of proposed sign at Plainfield Road & Cass Avenue.
Alderman Kenny received communication from.
.Carole Jurkash regarding policing; communication was forwarded to Chief Thomas..Bonnie Kucera, Sue Profitt, Michelle Houska, Linda Painter, Kathleen Abbate, and Joan & Jack Graham opposing proposed sign at Plainfield Road & Cass Avenue.
Alderman Chlystek.
.received several emails regarding policing; Chief Thomas responded.
.commented about Police Department monthly report.
.received communication mostly in opposition of proposed sign at Plainfield Road & Cass Avenue.
Mayor Marchese received communication from.
.Jim & Chuck Pine, owners of Chuck’s Southern Comforts, thanking City for reimbursement of Food & Beverage Taxes.
.Matt Stafford, Joan Gundlash, Michelle Houska, Sue Profitt, and Joan & Jack Graham opposing proposed sign at Plainfield Road & Cass Avenue.
.Susan & Dean Mikula, Andrew & Brooke Piasecke, Sarah & TK Booth, Betty Czaja, Jennifer Santucci, Vince & Rhonda Esposito and Greg Sullivan were in support of proposed sign.
8. MAYORS REPORT
Mayor Marchese read Mayoral Proclamation honoring Deputy Chief Rentka for his contributions, service, energy, and devotion to the City of Darien and Darien Police Department into the record; the Mayor presented proclamation to retiring Deputy Chief Rentka. He congratulated Deputy Chief Rentka and thanked him for his many years of dedicated service.
Chief Thomas presented Mrs. Rentka with a bouquet of flowers. Chief Thomas recognized Deputy Chief Rentka and complemented him on his professionalism and dedication to serving others.
Deputy Chief Rentka thanked Mayor Marchese and Administrator Vana for their support and opportunities provided; elected officials for their dedication; Director Gombac for a Public Works Department that is second-to-none; Darien Police Department officers & civilians; Chief Thomas for his wealth of knowledge, leadership, and strong set of values; and particularly his wife & sons for their love and support. He thanked everyone for their support and friendship; he expressed his gratefulness for the time spent in Darien and wished everyone the best.
Chief Thomas announced Sergeant Jason Norton would assume the responsibility of Deputy Chief on June 23, 2020. He reviewed the selection process and Sergeant Norton’s background. Sergeant Norton thanked Chief Thomas for the opportunity to serve and Deputy Chief Rentka for all his guidance. He noted Darien is his second home, and he intends to make citizens proud. Mayor Marchese congratulated Sergeant Norton.
A. CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE THE REAPPOINTMENT OF DEPARTMENT HEADS: GREGORY THOMAS, POLICE CHIEF AND DANIEL GOMBAC, DIRECTOR OF MUNICIPAL SERVICES
It was moved by Alderman Schauer and seconded by Alderman Kenny to approve the motion as presented.
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Chlystek, Gustafson, Kenny, Schauer
Abstain: Sullivan, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: None
Results: Ayes 7, Nays 0, Absent 0
MOTION DULY CARRIED
Clerk Ragona issued the Oath of Office to Chief Thomas and Director Gombac. Mayor Marchese thanked Chief Thomas and Director Gombac for their service. Director Gombac and Chief Thomas expressed their appreciation.
Mayor Marchese provided an update on restaurants and bars; he stated that hopefully on June 26 restaurants and bars can open to a limited indoor capacity. He commented the Economic Development Committee has been communicating with restaurant owners.
Mayor Marchese stated Food & Beverage refund checks were delivered to businesses. He encouraged residents to take advantage of outdoor/indoor dining.
9. CITY CLERK’S REPORT
Clerk Ragona noted:
• City offices will be closed on Friday, July 3, 2020 in observance of Independence Day.
• the July 6th City Council Meeting has been cancelled.
• the next City Council Meeting will be held on July 20, 2020.
10. CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
Administrator Vana thanked Lisa Klemm & staff for updating the City website; he hopes residents find the site easier to utilize.
11. DEPARTMENT HEAD INFORMATION/QUESTIONS
A. POLICE DEPARTMENT MONTHLY REPORT – APRIL 2020
The April 2020 Police Department Monthly Report is available on the City website.
Chief Thomas provided an update on fireworks advising that they are illegal and dangerous. He addressed Council questions regarding fireworks, monthly report, diversity, state laws, union contracts, personnel policies, body cams and wrongful convictions.
B. MUNICIPALSERVICES
Director Gombac stated.
.NiCor moved depressurizing equipment for a construction project near Lyman Avenue & Plainfield Road. Upon receipt of additional information, an update will be posted on social media.
.DuPage County requested information on Covid-19 expenses.
.firepit regulations will be reviewed at the upcoming Municipal Services Meeting; he requested resident feedback. Mayor Marchese provided background information. Alderman Kenny commented on regulation challenges.
12. TREASURER’S REPORT
A. WARRANT NUMBER 20-21-04
It was moved by Alderwoman Sullivan and seconded by Alderman Belczak to approve payment of Warrant Number 20-21-04 in the amount of $547,969.10 from the enumerated funds, and $266,654.21 from payroll funds for the period ending 06/04/20 for a total to be approved of $814,623.31.
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Chlystek, Gustafson, Kenny, Schauer
Abstain: Sullivan, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: None
Results: Ayes 7, Nays 0, Absent 0
MOTION DULY CARRIED
13. STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS
Municipal Services Committee – Chairman Belczak stated the minutes of the February 24, 2020 meeting were approved and submitted to the Clerk’s Office. He announced the next meeting of the Municipal Services Committee is scheduled for July 27, 2020 at 7:00 P.M.
Police Committee – Chairman Kenny stated the minutes of the February 18, 2020 meeting were approved and submitted to the Clerk’s Office. He announced the next meeting of the Police Committee is scheduled for July 20, 2020 at 6:00 P.M. in the Police Department Training Room.
14. QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS – AGENDA RELATED There were none.
15. OLD BUSINESS
There was no Old Business.
16. CONSENT AGENDA
There was no Consent Agenda
17. NEW BUSINESS
Mayor Marchese changed the order of items as listed on the Agenda.
A. CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE A RESOLUTION APPROVING A PLAT OF UTILITY EASEMENT VACATION AND A PLAT OF UTILITY EASEMENT FOR 8801 GLENEAGLES LANE 10-05-205-024
It was moved by Alderman Belczak and seconded by Alderwoman Sullivan to approve the motion as presented.
RESOLUTION NO.R-36-20
A RESOLUTION APPROVING A PLAT OF UTILITY EASEMENT VACATION AND A PLAT OF UTILITY EASEMENT FOR 8801 GLENEAGLES LANE 10-05-205-024
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Chlystek, Gustafson, Kenny, Schauer
Abstain: Sullivan, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: None
Results: Ayes 7, Nays 0, Absent 0
MOTION DULY CARRIED
B. CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A VARIATION TO THE DARIEN ZONING REGULATIONS (PZC 2020-04 7729 WARWICK AVENUE)
It was moved by Alderman Schauer and seconded by Alderman Belczak to approve the motion as presented.
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Chlystek, Gustafson, Kenny, Schauer
Abstain: Sullivan, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: None
Results: Ayes 7, Nays 0, Absent 0
MOTION DULY CARRIED
C. CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 3-3-7-11(C) OF THE DARIEN CITY CODE
It was moved by Alderman Belczak and seconded by Alderman Schauer to approve the motion as presented.
ORDINANCE NO.O-10-20
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 3-3-7-11(C) OF THE DARIEN CITY CODE
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Chlystek, Gustafson, Kenny, Schauer
Abstain: Sullivan, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: None
Results: Ayes 7, Nays 0, Absent 0
MOTION DULY CARRIED
D. CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE THE EXPENDITURE OF BUDGETED FUNDS LINE ITEM 01-40-4325 CONSULTING/PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FOR THE ONE YEAR LAW ENFORCEMENT POLICY MANUAL UPDATE SUBSCRIPTION FROM LEXIPOL, LLC IN THE AMOUNT OF $8,562.00
It was moved by Alderman Kenny and seconded by Alderman Schauer to approve the motion as presented.
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Chlystek, Gustafson, Kenny, Schauer
Abstain: Sullivan, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: None
Results: Ayes 7, Nays 0, Absent 0
MOTION DULY CARRIED
E. CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE AN ORDINANCE GRANTING A SERIES OF VARIATIONS TO ALLOW THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN ELECTRONIC MESSAGE BOARD SIGN (NORTHWEST CORNER OF PLAINFIELD AND CASS)
It was moved by Alderman Belczak and seconded by Alderman Gustafson to approve the motion as presented.
Council members voiced their opinions regarding construction of electronic message board; Council discussion ensued.
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Gustafson, Vaughan
Nays: Chlystek, Kenny, Schauer, Sullivan
Absent: None
Results: Ayes 3, Nays 4, Absent 0
MOTION FAILED
F. CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING AN EASEMENT AGREEMENT (NORTHWEST CORNER OF CASS AVENUE AND PLAINFIELD ROAD, DARIEN, IL 60561 PIN #09- 28-402-025)
G. CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE A RESOLUTION APPROVING A DIGITAL SIGN AGREEMENT WITHIN A DEDICATED EASEMENT AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER AT 7532 CASS AVENUE, DARIEN IL 60561, PIN NO 09-28-402-025)
It was moved by Alderman Schauer and seconded by Alderman Belczak to approve the motions of items F & G as presented.
Roll Call: Ayes: None
Abstain: GustafsonNays: Belczak, Chlystek, Kenny, Schauer, Sullivan,Chlystek
Absent: None
Results: Ayes 0, Nays 7, Absent 0
MOTION FAILED
Director Gombac asked direction from Council. Council discussion ensued 18. QUESTIONS, COMMENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS – GENERAL
Alderman Kenny inquired about date for National Night Out; Chief Thomas provided tentative date of Tuesday, October 6, 2020.
Mayor Marchese stated he and Administrator Vana are investigating the opportunity to host a movie night in the parking lot of Carriage Greens Country Club.
Alderwoman Sullivan.
.commented houses of worship have started to reopen. As preregistration may be required and hours of services may have changed, she suggested calling or checking house of worship website for updates.
.thanked service organizations for food pantry donations.
Alderman Belczak noted.
.there will be no 4th of July parade.
.Darien Swim & Racket Club is reopening on July 3; additional information is available at www.darienswim.com. Mayor Marchese commented CDC guidelines will need to be followed.
19. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the City Council, it was moved by Alderwoman Sullivan and seconded by Alderman Schauer to adjourn the City Council meeting.
VIA VOICE VOTE – MOTION DULY CARRIED
The City Council meeting adjourned at 9:06 P.M.
https://www.darien.il.us/getattachment/5dc8b7ff-5a2e-41f6-9022-0819d9be5f35/City-Council-Meeting-June-15,-2020.aspx
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